eBooks

Build knowledge before you build a boat.

Wooden Boat Building

Embark on your next adventure: Build a boat.

There's something extraordinary about crafting your own vessel. A boat you've built isn't just a project — it's a companion, ready to glide through water, offering a sense of freedom and pride unmatched by any other woodworking endeavour.

With just a few common tools, affordable materials, and a bit of guidance, you could soon be on the water. This book covers:

  • Design tips: Build for speed and style.
  • Plans: Choosing or designing the perfect set.
  • Tool basics: What you'll need (and what you won't).
  • Materials: Cost-effective options to get started.
  • Techniques: From stitch-and-glue to working with a strongback.
  • Epoxy work: Tips for flawless application and safety.
  • Finishing touches: Paint, protection, and keeping costs down.

Designed for first-time builders and walks you through every step — easy to get started even in your garage.

Building Tokyo Express

Building a home on the water: The story of Tokyo Express.

For years, I dreamed of building my own boat — a home on the water — and finally, I made it happen. Over nearly three years, I constructed a 40-foot catamaran from scratch, turning an ambitious idea into a reality that became my home for five unforgettable years.

This wasn't just a project; it was a life-changing journey. With a tight budget of $70,000, I built almost everything myself — from the deck to the steering wheel.

The book shares what worked, what didn't, and how I overcame the challenges of such a monumental project:

  • Insights into building: Materials, methods, and the importance of the right workspace.
  • The process: A detailed timeline of each phase.
  • Personal reflections: The highs, lows, and lessons learned.

Even 25 years later, Tokyo Express still floats proudly — a testament to the craftsmanship poured into every detail.

Free Download

The Building Guide

Your free step-by-step guide to building wooden boats with epoxy.

Not sure where to start? This free guide is a streamlined version of the Wooden Boat Building book — key insights and practical tips to get you started without any commitment.

  • Tool list: The essentials for any first-time builder.
  • Material selection: What to buy and what to avoid.
  • Basic techniques: Step-by-step instructions for key processes.
  • Safety guidelines: Essential precautions for working with epoxy.

Completely free — helps you understand the basics before committing to a full project.